Social, seamless, just, and open: Advancing mobile communication research

Abstract

Through integrating the research featured in this issue, this article describes generative areas for future research and the means to advance the impact of our field. Reflective practices related to field building and knowledge access for which Rich Ling helped to lay the groundwork are highlighted. Ling’s work in mobile media and telecommunications has influenced the theoretical, methodological, and empirical opportunities for mobile communication research. Four themes for future mobile communication research have emerged: social, seamless, just, and open. These themes align with the work featured in this issue and with Ling’s promotion of practices that enhance our field to develop relevancy, integrity, and ecological validity. This article places special focus on global and social justice as leading to a better understanding of mobile communication in the world.